Conchitas con Carne is a delicious and comforting Mexican dish that combines ground beef with shell pasta in a savory tomato-based sauce. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s relatively easy to prepare. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups shell pasta
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Grated cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Mix well.
- Add the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the Pasta:
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the shell pasta and stir to ensure it is evenly distributed.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet or pot, and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and grated cheese if desired.
Tips:
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust the level of chili powder to your taste preference for spiciness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy your Conchitas con Carne! It’s a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a comforting meal.
